We had the good fortune of connecting with Henna Hiltunen and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Henna, how has your perspective on work-life balance evolved over time?
Starting this company, for the first year I was working 90-100h per week and made sure the business got up and running and achieved the level of stability that I wanted. I am happy I did as we became a successful business, but then had to take the decision to slow down and find a better balance. Now I appreciate my time off and I am over all a happier person, a nicer employer and a friend and take some time to do sports and other activities and that is so important I find.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I always had a dream of opening my own salon one day. I am originally from Finland and studied cosmetology there. I have been in the beauty industry for 20 years and the level of education I got was exceptional. I think that brought me so far in my carrier that today I find my self in Miami Beach owning this beautiful big salon. I am happy to say that still today hair is my passion!

After working in my home town as a hairstylist and a manager of a small chain of local salons for 7 years, I moved to Milan Italy to bring my acknowledge to the next level. I learned so much of different hair textures, new styling techniques, learned Italian and got to work with my first celebrity customers. That experience was so important for me looking back at time.

My next step after 3 and a half years in Milan was Aruba. I was ready to work on any hair texture and conquer the paradise island. I was continuously working with high-end and celebrity clientele. I also picked up another language along the way, spanish.

Me and my business partner met by coincidence in my last year there and decided to invest to a business together in Miami Beach and here I am, working in the best location in Miami Beach, doing hair and managing the day to day operations of my own business.

My inspiration was to open a salon that would have a cool international vibe with as many different nationalities and ethnicities in staff and in clientele, where all my four languages acknowledge would also come in handy. My clientele is a mix of locals and tourists, sprinkling some celebrities in between. Overall me and my team have succeeded in creating a good professional energy in to the salon, but with a feel of coziness and fun.

It has not been always easy, as many companies so did I struggle with Covid-19 pandemic and it’s effects on our tourism and business in many ways. In the end of the day it has been rewarding to get through it and being able to keep my staff and realize that it made me stronger as a business owner. Sometimes you just have to let go and not stress over things you cannot effect!

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I would equally take them to local Miami Beach restaurants as Wynwood or Brickell. Some of my favorite restaurants are the Setai, Mila, Los Fuegos at the Faena, Dirty French, Uchi, Cipriani and the list can go on and on in this beautiful city right?! I would want them to see the beach and the city, visit Wynwood walls and design district and beautiful sunsets from a nice rooftop restaurant.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I have a silent business partner abroad and we together mentored each other during the years and made a great team. Also I have so many good supportive friends or family members that I could always turn to with my concerns.

Website: www.hennahsalon.com

Instagram: www.instagram.com/hennah_international_salon

Facebook: Hennah International Salon

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